The International Cycling Tour of Côte d’Ivoire is set to kick off on September 27th. During a press conference on September 22nd, the organizers highlighted key aspects of the event, particularly financial challenges. The Ivorian Cycling Federation, led by president Jean Marie Allah Kouamé, revealed that although they initially requested 150 million CFA francs from the state, they ultimately secured 50 million CFA francs. Kouamé expressed hope that the government would release the funds soon, enabling them to then seek support from private sponsors.
Several countries are expected to participate, including France, Belgium, Algeria, Morocco, Rwanda, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Cameroon.
The organizers aim to have the event officially recognized by the International Cycling Union (UCI). Kouamé emphasized their commitment to meeting UCI standards and ensuring a clean competition: “None of our athletes will test positive for doping because we have healthy riders.”
The tour covers a total of 541 km over six stages, ending on October 2, with an additional 80 km race for the Grand Prix of Abidjan. The event is seen as a significant organizational challenge but also a major opportunity to put Côte d’Ivoire on the international cycling map.
